Building a "New" XI rather than use donor

[Wingnut]

Hello All,
I've just joined the forum after putting a deposit down on a factory kit. I realise that I, of course, should be directing a lot of queries to Westfield but I would appreciate the input of the knowledgeable lot on here.
I fell for the XI about 7 years ago and every time I've seen one I've said to myself "I'll do it one day"-Anyway realising that with 2 small children the ideal time would not be soon I threw caution to the wind and went for it regardless.

Looking at the issues with locating a donor, refurbishing parts, buying new parts etc I was just wondering if anybody had basically just gone out to buy all the parts needed and, on the basis that the parts would be new/rebuilt engine etc , had managed to register it as a new vehicle- I don't want a new plate- I have suitable old plates on retention- just very keen to avoid a Q registration?
Or is this a foolish way of doing it and, if I want to do that,I should just sell one or both of the kids and buy a new vehicle from Westfield?

Many thanks
Andrew
In a field in Suffolk

[Splat]

Assuming that you use the tried-and-tested Spridget-based mechanicals route, most of the major components aren't available as new. Starting from the front, in a non-exhaustive list, you can't buy: "fat rack" steering rack brackets, midget-type timing cover with breather, midget front engine plate, sump, block, front suspension uprights, steel-wheel front hubs, gearbox (although most new-builds use the Ford T9), rear axle casing, differential and rear brake back plates. I'm sure that I've missed numerous smaller pieces......

The most cost-effective way of assembling these parts, given that they'll all be over 40 years old and will all need restoration, is to buy the cheapest, but most complete A-Series Midget that you can find (or destroy a very nice looking blue one ).

[adamwilkinson]

You're assuming he is planning on using a midget donor...

[erictharg]

You would also have to ensure all the new components met current standards on things like emissions and safety. That could seriously interfere with the Eleven concept! Not only a 2014 emissions compliant engine, but things like fuel tank and breathers to manage fuel vapour, I suspect. Nasty. Complicated.

[Wingnut]

Thank you for your replies.
Splat, I would do that but I don't want a blue XI

I'll just have to keep an eye out for a suitable donor- my concern, of course, is buying a dog and spending lots of money and time refurbishing the parts but I suppose that goes with the territory. Aiming to get it finished and fettled in time for the classic Le Mans in 2016.
Cheers
Andrew

[M400too]

Given most midgets I looked at had new engines or needed them and rather a lot of new suspension etc the donor car route is I suspect hard for anyone to prove where the parts come from so it's a log book one needs as many numbers will not match the other thing is exchange parts as most suppliers go down this route and engine and front king pins are dear without exchange parts I have found a very obliging mg specialist in fife to help me

[Westfield 129]

The parts that come from a donor car include: front spindles, hubs, engine, trans (unless you are going with a 5 speed), hand brake lever and rear axle assembly with brakes.

Not much, really, and probably available from your local breaker.

The rest of the car, from the front calipers, instruments, steering rack (but not rack mounts if you have a "fat rack"), to the diff, are available new.

But you will still have to get the rear axle stripped, suspension mounts welded, and the assembly refinished. The front spindles can be exchanged for rebuilt ones with fresh king pins, and you can order a built engine on an exchange basis, with as much power as you might want.

I figure that you are trying to build the car quickly, without getting dirty. Possible? Yes. But someone has to rebuild the 50 year old bits from the donor car, or the breaker.

[jonclancy]

IMO, the best best is to get a frilly, but complete, 1275 Midget. With a logbook. Even a "decent" donor will need stuff refurbing, even if much is replaced with new (loom, brakes etc etc).

There are plenty of decent rebuilders who will take your parts and turn them around for you (for a reasonable fee, too).

Stripping the donor will take a couple of days at a leisurely pace. It's therapeutic work, too. Make sure you record the dismantling and retain all chassis plates. Ensure the engine serial is reflected on the V5 etc. Parts not required can be passed back into the MG/AH communities for that warm fuzzy feeling.

Cheers

Jon

Edit to add:

This one looks good for a cash offer - if it has the V5 and all chassis plates, engine numbers etc...

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/austin-healey ... 3f320943c3

or this even cheaper and nearer to you!

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Austin-Healey ... 3f32089e58

[Wingnut]

Many thanks Jon. I have been watching that Sprite. There are now 2 bidders so if it is anyone on this forum please let me know and I will leave it to you.
Interestingly, a DVlA search indicated the car was first registered in 1992 ! Perhaps it was imported?
Cheers
Andrew

[erictharg]

What's wrong with blue Elevens?

And you can't spend a fortune fettling Midget parts. They're too cheap! That is all part of the appeal of the Eleven...