Hi

Just a small query. How could you convert an MG metro engine to drive the rear wheels as i have found one in my local scrap yard? I presume that it could be as simple as replacing the fwd bits with a krank case from a MG midget.

i think you mean gearbox, not crankcase

Not an easy conversion, you would probably be better off finding an engine from a Spridget of possibly an Ital / Marina . Have you considered a K series conversion? now common in Spridgets and Minors amongst other cars

May i ask how it is easyer to convert a k-series engine thant a MG metro a series engine?

Thank you for the information.

I saw a race series at the local track a while back with a load of minis which were converted to rwd. The engine was mounted longitudinaly, with the driveshaft now facing forwards welded to the subframe to stop it turning. the diff then transfered all the power to the other shaft, which was lengthened and coupled to a rear axle of unknown origins.
It all loooked a bit bodged, but they looked like an absolute hoot to drive.

k series has a sump,metro sump is in the gearbox,crank has the wrong shaped end,rear main wont seal,the problems are endless

You will need a new crankshaft and probably need to change the end plate/gearbox mounting holes on the block to get it to fit to a rwd gearbox - probably more money than it might be worth, unless you really want an A series engine.

the rear main bearing housing in the Metro lump is different as conrod says not able to fit rear main oil seal, crank is different, unable to mount RWD flywheel . Timing cover backplate on Metro has no engine mounting provision, not able to use Metro type mounts in RWD. Oil pick up in Metro is in gearbox and a few other differences Check out David Vizard's book Tuning the A series. Check out also the last edition of PPC for conversion to K series for which all conversion parts are available

A+ from a 1.3 Maestro or Montego is a lot easier to convert to rwd it was basically an Marna/Ital A+ canted over a few degrees.

Robin Hood built a few A-series, mid-engined 7s. The new owners were selling
them (and lots of other stuff) off a few months back.
Also, do a google for "Nota Fang"

Without a doubt, your easiest option (if you want to use the A series) is to get a late 1.3 Ital engine and box. Then transplant the metro rods and pistons, head and cam and cam followers to get MG Metro power out of it (72bhp IIRC, though a bit more obtainable with decent exhaust and induction setup, e.g. get rid of the elbow on the SU inlet).

Take the opportunity to fit a duplex timming chain as well as the A+ chain tensioner and cam chain rattle will be a thing of the past for many miles.

The Ital gearbox is not especialy strong by the way, it won't last too well if you abuse it. A 1300 Crossflow and Ford type 9 gearbox would be a more sensible choice IMO if you want to stick to that capacity limit.