MTB2 Installation Manual for Classic Minis 1959-2001 in PDF Form

The PDF installation Manual can be Downloaded HERE

Need more information? Check out Frequently Asked Questions about VTEC Engine Swaps?

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

 

Dear Customer,

We welcome you to the Honda Powered Mini World. Thank you and Congratulations for your purchase. You can be certain that you have made a wise choice with this upgrade. This kit was designed to help put you on the right track when building your ultimate Mini. With the help of this MTD Kit, you will be driving your Super Fast Mini soon.

Mini has been made in many variations with many subtle “tweaks” and varying build quality over its lifetime. It is impossible to account for all these, and some will even be unique to your car. Additionally, your car is likely 15-20 years old, with all that has happened to it in that time.

With all that said, your MTD kit and these instructions are designed to try to allow for some of these differences. For others, you will have to “field fit” or adjust as you go. We’ll do all we can to help keep your project moving along.

Please keep in mind that pictures will be of great help, so if you don’t have a digital camera, (or always wanted one) now is a good time to get one. In fact, you should take LOTS of pictures to document your project. Your project may seem overwhelming at times, but if you take it one step at a time, in a logical sequence and take an occasional break from it, you’ll do great.

 

The Purpose Of This Honda VTEC Kit

We want to make your Honda VTEC installation easy and hassle free and this kit is the first step towards that goal. We have taken the research and development headaches out of the install so that you do not have to deal with all of that. The sub-frame mounts to the car. The engine mounts to the sub-frame. And after a few other small connections, you are ready to crank and drive your Super Fast Mini.

We have broken the whole VTEC Mini build up into sections, from start to finish. We hope that this will be a pleasurable experience for you and we will do everything that we can to make it that. Just remember, we are available to help you 5 days a week.  Just give us a call, Ask Us A Question or drop us an email.

Thanks and have fun,
                    Mini Mania

 

Honda VTEC Kit Parts


This Section contains a list and description of the parts included in the MTB2 Kit, and a list of parts that you will need in addition to the MTD Kit.

MTD Kit Contents:

  • MTB2 Subframe
  • RH Upper Suspension Arm
  • LH Upper Suspension Arm
  • RH Adjustable Lower Suspension Arm
  • LH Adjustable Lower Suspension Arm
  • Upper Strut Brackets
  • Rear Transmission Stabilizer
  • Mounting Hardware
  • 2 Mini/Honda Chromoly Axle Shafts

 VTEC Kit for Classic Minis

Additional Parts Needed:

  • Honda B Series Engine/Transmission (See List Below)
  • Coil-Over Shocks or Mini Tec’s Coil-Over Shock Kit.
  • Front Disc Brake System: Mini Tec’s Superbrake, Mini 8.4” Disc Brakes, Other…
  • Wheels with a –7mm Offset to the outside (needed for turning radius clearance) or wheel spacers
  • Honda Engine and ECU Wiring Harness’
  • Modified Honda ECU – OBD1
  • Electronic Speedometer
  • Honda Civic Radiator or Mini Tec’s MTB Aluminum Radiator Kit
  • Honda Shifter

 

Preparation


Step 1: Remove stock Mini engine and sub-frame. Then remove everything else in
the engine compartment.

 

VTEC Install for Classic Minis


Step 2: Remove inner fenders: Cut and remove both inner fenders as shown. You will need this extra space for the width of the subframe.

VTEC Install for Classic Minis


Step 3: Cut out metal just below stock shock mount. This is needed to fit the MTB subframe (See following two photos).

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Step 4: Cut out behind grille: You will need to remove any excess metal behind your grille. This will give you maximum flow and cooling ability.

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Step 5: Remove all inner metal bracketry that is attached to the lower valence. Cut off lower front valence 1” below bumper lip at intersection. At this point you will need to reattach and weld valance to leading edge of bumper lip as shown.

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Your Mini should now be prepared for the installation process.

 

Installation

Installing Engine into Subframe:

Step 1: Bore stock Honda engine and transmission mount to ½” using a drill bit.

Step 2: Attach engine to sub-frame using stock engine mount (use *1/2 x 4 ½ bolt) and stock transmission mount (use ½ x 4 ½ bolt).

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Step 3: Attach upper bump stops. Mini bump stops with the single stud will work here.

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

 

Install Engine and Subframe into Mini:


Step 1: By lowering the car onto the subframe, attach it to the car using the two large subframe mounting bolts just like the standard Mini subframe attaches. If your car is an earlier model and does not have these two large ¾” diameter bolts, then you will need our MK1/2 Subframe Mounting Kit. Standard Mini mounting bolts are circled
in red in the following photo. Do not tighten completely at this point. You will need to attach the subframe and the bottom first.

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Step 2: Drill six holes to support the bottom of the subframe using a 5/16” drill bit. Use the six supplied 5/16” bolts with plates to fasten the subframe to the car on the
lower side. The plates will go inside of the car to give the subframe extra support. After the six bolts are in place and tight, tighten the two large subframe mounting bolts on top of the frame. See photos.

VTEC Install for Classic Minis
VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Your subframe should now be attached to your Mini.

 

Axles: Assembly and Installation


Parts needed for Assembly: *Chromoly Axle Shafts, Complete Inner Honda CV
Joint Assemblies, and Complete Outer Mini CV Joint Assemblies.

Step 1: Assemble Small end of axle shaft with the Mini cv joint assembly as done on
a stock Mini but replace ball bearing gear with supplied gear. (See following four
Photos)

VTEC Install for Classic MinisVTEC Install for Classic Minis
VTEC Install for Classic MinisVTEC Install for Classic Minis

Honda Axle End Assembly: Assemble large splinned side of axle with the Honda cv joint assembly. (See following four Photos)

VTEC Install for Classic MinisVTEC Install for Classic Minis
VTEC Install for Classic MinisVTEC Install for Classic Minis

Axle Installation: Simply slide one of the axles into the transmission and the other into the engine mid-shaft until the axles lock into place.

 

Swivel Hubs and Brakes:

Install the Swivel Hubs and Brakes as done on stock Mini.

Master Cylinder:

Depending on your setup, you may have to relocate one of your master cylinders. If you have both master cylinders on the right side of the car, then they are clear. If you have both master cylinders on the left side, then the brake master cylinder will have to be relocated. We recommend getting a left hand drive conversion pedal box. This will allow you to mount the master cylinder on the right side of the car, clear of any objects. Note: For best clearance, check out Mini Tec’s Aluminum Racing Pedal Kit.

Shifter Linkage:

Use Honda Shifter linkage for the conversion.

Step 1: Cut all four ends off of the shifter linkage.

Step 2: Hang shifter in stock Mini location. New holes will need to be drilled. (See following Photo)

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Step 3: Hang shifter ends on the transmission. (See following Photo)

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Step 4: Reattach lower shifter end (as shown in following photo). The shifter rod reducers will be needed to rebuild the shifter linkage (shifter rod reducers are shown being held in previous and following photos).

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Step 5: Rebuild the shifter linkage using ¾” metal pipe. Bend and weld pipes so that all gears can be easily shifted to and from without hitting the body or anything else. (See following photo)

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Fuel System:

Change your fuel pump to one that ranges from 32 to 48 PSI. A return line will be needed on certain models that do not have them.

Cooling System:

The MTB2 Subframe is designed to use the Honda Civic radiator 1992 – 1998 model. There are two tabs located on the front of the sub-frame for mounting this radiator.
Alternative: Mini Tec Radiator Kit – comes with everything you need to keep your Honda Mini running at the correct operating temperature. Items included are:
Aluminum Radiator, Radiator fan, radiator hoses, and a catch can.

Wiring:

Because the Mini is a stand alone system, only OBD1 computers can be used. Pin- outs can be found on the web. Contact your local Honda tuner for more information.
We also offer plug-in wiring harnesses to relieve you of this step.

Intake Modification:

You will need to shorten or modify your intake so that it does not interfere with the bulkhead. We suggest cutting the intake and adding 45 degree silicone elbows as
shown below. Silicone hoses can be purchased through various racing parts dealers such as http://venair.com/?lang=en.

VTEC Install for Classic Minis

Suspension Setup:

These figures are for daily driving. You may want to set up the car differently if planning on racing your Mini.

  • Front Caster Setting = 2.5 Degrees
  • Front Camber Setting = -1 Degree


Check List: For your safety, please check…

  • That every suspension component
  • is fastened tightly.
  • That the steering system is
  • fastened properly.
  • For a firm brake pedal.
  • That the engine is stationary.
  • All fluid levels are full.
  • Tires are inflated properly.
  • All lug nuts are tight.

Test Drive:

For your first test drive, go slow and easy to make sure that there are no problems. 

Listen to the car as you drive it for odd noises. Drive the car easy for a few miles and then go over the Check List again. After driving the car for 100 miles, check front suspension alignment.

Periodically check all suspension nuts and bolts for wear and/or tightness.

After that, have fun!


Disclaimer of Warranty

Neither the seller nor the manufacturer will be liable for any loss, damage or injury directly or indirectly arising from the use or inability to determine the use of this product.

Before using, the use shall determine the suitability of the products for its intended use, and the user should assume full responsibility and risk in connection herewith.

For off road use only!

 

Compatible Honda B Series Engines: Here is a list of available B Series Honda engines that you can use with your MTB2 Kit.

  • B16A VTEC Found in:
    • 1989-1993 JDM Honda Integra RSi/XSi (DA6/DA8)
    • 1989-1991 JDM Honda CRX SiR (EF8)
    • 1989-1991 JDM Honda Civic SiR/SiRII (EF9)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.2:14
      • Rod/stroke ratio: 1.74
      • Power: 158 hp @ 7600 rpm & 112 ft lbf @ 7000 rpm
      • Transmission: S1/J1/Y1/A1/YS1
    • 1992-1995 JDM Honda Civic SiR/SiRII (EG6/EG9)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.4:1
      • Power: 168 hp @ 7800 rpm & 116 ft lbf @ 7300 rpm
      • Transmission: S4C
    • 1992-1996 EDM Honda Civic VTi
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.4:1
      • Power: 158 hp @ 7600 rpm & 116 ft lbf @ 7300 rpm
    • 1992-1996 JDM Honda CRX del Sol SiR
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.4:1
      • Power: 158 hp - 170 hp & 111 ft lbf - 116 ft lbf
  • B16A1 VTEC Found in:
    • 1981-1991 EUDM Honda CRX 1.6i/VTi (EE8/ED)
    • 1990-1991 EUDM Honda Civic 1.6iVT (EE9)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.2:1
      • Power: 150 hp (112 kW) @ 7600 rpm & 111 ft·lbf (151 N·m) @ 7000 rpm
  • B16A2 VTEC Found in:
    • 1992-2000 Honda Civ EDM VTi (EG & EK)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.2:1
      • Power: 160 hp @ 7600 rpm & 113 ft·lbf (153 N·m) @ 7300 rpm
      • Transmission: Y21
    • 1999-2000 Honda Civic Si (EM1)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.2:1
      • Power: 160 hp (118 kW) @ 7600 rpm & 111 ft·lbf (151 N·m) @ 7000 rpm
      • Transmission: Y21 S4C
    • 1996-1997 Honda Del Sol VTEC (EG)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.4:1
      • Power: 160 hp (119 kW) @ 7800 rpm & 111 ft·lbf (152 N·m) @ 7000 rpm
      • Transmission: Y21
  • B16A3 VTEC Found in: Found in:
    • 1994-1995 Honda Del Sol VTEC (EG)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.4:1
      • Power: 160 hp (119 kW) @ 7800 rpm & 111 ft·lbf (152 N·m) @ 7000 rpm
      • Transmission: Y21
  • B16A6 VTEC Found in:
    • 1996-2000 Honda Civic - South Africa VTEC (EK)
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.2:1
      • Power: 160 hp (118 kW) @ 7800 rpm & 160 N·m @ 7400 rpm
      • Transmission: Y21
  • B16B VTEC Found in:
    • 1997-2000 Civic Type-R[EK9]
      • Displacement: 1595 cm³
      • Compression: 10.8:1
      • Power: 185 hp (137 kW) @ 8200 rpm & 118 ft lbf (160 N·m) @ 7400 rpm
      • Transmission: S4C With LSD
  • B17A1 VTEC Found in:
    • 1992-1999 Integra GS-R (DB2)
      • Displacement: 1608 cm³
      • Compression: 9.6:1
      • Power: 160 hp @ 9500 rpm & 197 ft lbf (159 N·m) @ 2200 rpm
      • Transmission: cable~XS1
  • B18A1 Found in:
    • 1990-1993 Integra RS/LS/GS (DA)
      • Displacement: 1834 cm³
      • Compression: 9.2:1
      • Bore: 81mm
      • Stroke: 89mm
      • Power:
        • 1990-1991: 130 hp (97 kW) @ 6000 rpm & 121 ft lbf (164 N·m) @ 5000 rpm
        • 1992-1994: 140 hp (104 kW) @ 6300 rpm & 127 ft lbf (173 N·m) @ 5200 rpm
      • Transmission: YS1
  • B18B1 Found in:
    • 1994-2001 Acura Integra "RS/LS/GS" (DC4/DB7)
      • Displacement: 1834 cc
      • Compression: 9.2:1
      • Bore: 81mm
      • Stroke: 89mm
      • Power: 142 hp @ 6300 rpm & 127 ft lbf @ 5200 rpm
      • Transmission: S88
  • B18C VTEC Found in:
    • JDM Spec Honda Integra ITR
      • Displacement: 1797 cm³
      • Compression: 11.1:1 (JDM) - The USDM Integra Type-R 10.6:1
      • Power: 200 ps (200 hp) @ 7800 rpm & 134 ft lbf @6200 rpm
      • Transmission: Y80
  • B18C1 VTEC Found in:
    • 1994-2001 Integra GS-R (DC2 & DB8)
      • Displacement: 1797 cm³
      • Compression: 11.0:1
      • Power: 170 hp @ 7600 rpm & 128 ft lbf @6200 rpm
      • Transmission: S80
  • B18C3 VTEC Found in:
    • 1995-1998 Acura Integra Type R
        li>Power: 195 hp
  • B18C4 VTEC Found in:
    • 1996-2000 UK Civic 1.8i VTi 5-door Hatch
    • 1996-2000 UK Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-Door Wagon
    • 1998-1999 EU Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-Door Wagon
    • 1998-1999 EU Civic 1.8i VTi 5-Door Hatch
      • Displacement: 1797 cm³
      • Compression: 10.0:1
      • Power: 169 hp (124 kW) @ 8000 rpm & 129 ft lbf (174 N·m) @ 7500 rpm
      • Transmission: S9B
  • B18C5 VTEC Found in:
    • 1997-2001 Integra Type-R
      • Displacement: 1797 cm³
      • Compression: 11.0:1
      • Power: 192 hp @ 8000 rpm & 130 ft lbf (176 N·m) @ 7500 rpm
      • Transmission: S80
  • B18C6 VTECFound in:
    • 1998-2001 Honda Integra UK and Euro Spec Type R
      • Power: 190 ps (147 kW), 187N·m
  • B18C7 VTECFound in:
    • 1996- Honda Integra Type R (Australia)
      • Power: 200 hp (140 kW), 136 ft lbf
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