Cool Runnings

I replaced the thermostat in the Mini today. When the Midget's broke this summer, it was overheating. Being winter now, the problem in the Mini was quite the opposite. It took a good deal of driving to get the temperature gauge even slightly above the C. This resulted in weakened performance and a need to keep the choke out much longer.

I had to try three different auto parts stores to get the thermostat and gasket I needed. The problem is, auto stores don't have a 1980s Mini listed in their computers because they weren't imported to the States during that time. So I asked them to look up a 1960s Mini thermostat/gasket. The engines differed slightly from mine, but I don't think that'd be an issue with something as universal as a thermostat. I went with a 180º thermostat which should be better for winter use than the 160º I replaced.