I agree.  Anything that removes the bonnet is asking for trouble and scratched scuttles.  These have to raise it up out of the way to clear.  

I wouldn't worry too much about the minivation hinges damaging paint Alex, if you are using the quick release ones you need an extra set of hands or two rags on the bonnet ends to stop damaging the scuttle paint from what i remember about them. It looks like the minivation hinges lift the bonnet assembly upwards for clearance when opening, articulated may be the phrase i am looking for.

You made my day.

Thanks.

--------------------

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Hey Tow Joe, do you have a link, or a pdf of the article for those of us who are not privy to a copy?

Someone needs to design a kit to re install the bonnet safety latch on the slam panel.

The article appears in September 2012 issue of Miniworld. Pages 64-65

Regards

Towjoe  

I'd be a buyer at around $85...

I checked MiniMag back to April of this year without success. I describe the evolution to people as " bloody scalp, tennis ball, quick release hinges." At least that's how it went for my bald head.

I don't remember seeing these fitted in a tech article in either Mini publication.  Might have been a featured product on the "what's new" pages.
The geometry must be very clever to allow the back edge of the bonnet to miss the wipers, while also avoiding scraping the corners of the bonnet on the inner wings.

Edit:  They don't work with Mk1 (or anything with the inboard hinges), Elf, Hornet or Clubman.
No templates included for drilling the required holes in the inner wings, it's all done by eye.
//minivation.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/Proj-A-Instructions.pdf

I shall wait till I see some fitted on a car in front of me before diving in - the Minimail quick release hinges (as sold by others including the host) are more than adequate for half the price.

A tennis ball is your friend, my friend... 
And, if you have hinged rear windows, two of 'em will keep them jammed open.

If they fit MK3 put me in for a set. If new holes need drilled is a template part of the package?

It would be helpful if someone could post the referenced article from Mini Mag.

They look like Mk 3.  If they can do Mk 1 I'm in as well.

Count me in for one!

I believe the mounting is a simple matter of drilling a couple of holes. They are adjustable.

The "prop rod" is non-existent for a reason. These lock each side in the full upright poition, and can be adjusted to make it very tight when locked in. You simply pull the knob to pull the pin out, and shut the hood. It's a brilliant design, really.

They are making hinges for the clubman, but I'm not sure when it will be ready.

I've asked for detailed install pictures and instructions and will post what I find when I get it. But apparently they did a write-up in mini magazine.

It looks like that knob is the lock and needs to be pulled out to lower the hood. Kind of similar to a Mercedes hinge.

I'm interested, since at 6'3", I keep smacking my head on the hood pin...... LOL

Not seeing a prop rod, I am wondering how the bonnet stays in the open position. Also, are these available for older Mini's where the hinges are more inboard?

What is the mounting procedure look like? Do you have to drill new holes?

Are they making them for the Clubman yet ? I read they were supposed to be releasing them soon.

I've been approached by Ben, the creative director of Minivation, about doing a group purchase on his freaking awesome hinges. The group order will only go through if there's a minimum of 10 orders. Right now, the hinges are about $110 shipped to the US, but with the group buy at 10, It looks like it will be closer to $85. And potentially even cheaper if we have more than 10 people in on the buy.

Here's the hinges, and a comparison of the original hinges vs the new hinges.

Just trying to get a rough idea of who will be interested in a group buy. Post on here if you are interested. And I don't mean "well... I might possibly maybe be interested". I mean, You should be able to say "Yes, I'll buy one if it's available at a good price." haha