Irish Mini Owners Club

Hi Guys,

I need some help in relation to a knocking thats developed from the left rear of my 1999 Mini 40 LE (w/ 13 inch sportspacks on Dunlop SP2000's). I can only describe it as sounding like a hard ball has been left in the boot, which bounces up and down whenever a bump is hit. Its particularly noticeable on rumble strips.

After a lot of investigation there is nothing in the boot, or in the fuel tank, or under the rear seat, or behind the rear seat, nor does there seem to be anything wrong with the suspension, or any of the bushes or joints.

The only thing we can come up with (my Dad is a mechanic) is that maybe the shock (a Koni sport) as failed . . but there is no change in ride quality at all!!!

I'm at a loss.

Any ideas?

Thanks,

Greg

I would have guessed a shock problem, either loose or a failed bush. Have you tried changing it for another to see if that solves the problem?

Thanks Dave, opened the bottom of the shock and the bush is fine . . didn't open the top as didn't want to go to the bother of removing the tank. Car doesn't seem to be bottoming out and ride isn't affected at all!! Will give it another week or two and if I don't come up with anything I may have to look at getting the rear shocks replaced.

Have a look at the knuckle joint, if its dry or worn it can cause a knocking sound.

Thank you sir, will have a look at that and see if its the problem . . . though it really doesn't sound like thats what it is

Murphy's Law says it is the top mounting behind the tank!

Whereabouts in Wicklow are you?

Ashford.

If the left shock has to come out I don't mind going through the complexities of removing the tank . . but if thats more than likely what it is then it'll have to be done!!

If I decide to get the rear shocks replaced will the boys in places like DC Exhausts or Kwik-Fit be able to manage OK?

Replacing the shocks is a DIY job, just over an hour will do it & moving the tank is easy. If you have a broken ball joint, I may have one & you can have it. Based in Ashford also, but away until Tuesday of next week.

Well done lads, a perfect example of how the forum should be used.

Thanks all. Away this weekend but may have to get at it the following weekend!! Now when are we going to have some event so that I can show my little Mini off (the car that is!!)?

I am in Killiney so only about 20 mins away, and am usually in Wicklow Town once a week visiting family if you need any advice.

Lads, thanks for all your help on this - the problem was indeed a failed left rear shock, as first thought. The car failed its NCT (the shock and also brake imbalance) last Wednesday and a full set of Monroe shocks have been fitted today . . noise now gone!!

Now to fix the brake imbalance and send it for its re-test on Friday night!

The dodgy shock wouldn't have been helping the brake imbalance! All you can do is adjust them as best you can

Simple enough job thats well covered in the Haynes book of lies. Best of luck with the retest.

Brake imbalance and new shocks sorted out yesterday . . performing like a totally new car now!! Firmer ride but smoother over bumps (especially rumble strips) and actually brakes in a straight line now!! Should have no problem passing the retest on Friday now.