Not quite a Locost, but given the amount of experience on here with chassis building I thought I'd give this a shot.

I've got a classic mini, going to put a Vtec engine in, and I'll be making up the jig in the next few days.

My plan is, to support the standard mini front subframe off the ground at the height it usually sits at on a mini, then create the frame/jig around it, taking note of subframe mounting points and the the face of the drive flange (which will help me keep the track the same).

Once I've done this, I'll create the new subframe (made from CDS) in the jig, whilst repeatedly moving the Vtec into the new subframe as I go along to make sure I'm not putting part of the subframe in the way of the engine.

Can anyone see where I may trip up with this, or does anyone have any tips?

kimini (sp) on here did that very thing - checkout his website
Bob

Shouldn't be TOO hard. It may be worth bolting the subframe into a jig/frame and adding bits to make the reference points you need. The suspension parts could be measured fairly accurately on the subframe and then a reversible jig made for these, so it can be used to make both sides even. Not sure how hard this bit would be though.

am i missing something or are you keeping it fwd?

I'm assuming he is. Could be wrong though.

First thing to do is check that the subframe being used as a pattern for the jig, is straight and true.

Many a new item has been checked and found twisted and unsquare.

Many Minis 'crab' due to unsquare or twisted front or rear subframes, and the wonky chassis they are fitted to.

Cheers,
Syd.

Yea, keeping it FWD.

And yea, I know all about the tight tolerances they had on the mini production line! lol