'A' Series blocks

[philthehill]

I have had recent thread/conversation with Gaviinl re the 1275cc 'A' block number in his MG Midget sports car
He found that the block casting number is 12G1279.
Now - I have found this engine for sale on 'e' bay.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Classic-Mini ... SwEARbCuNs

The block has the same casting number but it has a non Mini front engine mounting plate (minor style) but has the classic Mini crankshaft tail.

The nearest engine number combination in the attached link is Allegro which is:- 12H/……/…...

https://www.minimania.com/Engine___Iden ... ta_UPDATED

Interesting engine any views out there.
Phil

[RobThomas]

I'd put money on it being a universal-fit block casting for both engine types, like the '12A497'(?) small bore engines that could be turned into different capacity sizes.

I've seen a transverse 850 with the threads for an in-line oil pick-up, suggesting that the same block could be made to fit either way. I wonder if there is any evidence that dowel pins had been fitted to your one in the past, Gavin?

[StillGotMy1stCar]

Austin 1300S Mk3 perhaps?

[philthehill]

Thank you for the replies above.
Its the Minor type engine front plate that is puzzling me.
I have seen similar 10 stud 1 bolt engines fitted to the Riley 1300 and Austin 1300 Gt but thy did not have the Minor type front engine plate fitted.
Phil

[StillGotMy1stCar]

Phil, The Minor engine mount bracket faces forward the BMC 1100/1300 the bracket faces backwards.
Regards John

[philthehill]

John
Many thanks for that observation.
You appear to be right - see the link below:-

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/MINI-A-SERIE ... SwB09YPGj3

Here is a good link describing the 1275cc 11 stud non Cooper S engine.
http://www.somerfordmini.co.uk/eshop/in ... age&id=109
From the link above it appears that the block numbers in the Mini Mania link are block part numbers.
That still leaves a link to be found between the 1275cc 'e' bay engine listed in my original post of this thread and Gavini's 1275cc engined Midget
No doubt all will become clear in time.
Any other information will be gratefully received if for nothing more than having the satisfaction of knowing the relationship between the two different engine blocks which have the same block casting number.
Phil

[Chipper]

A quick search reveals the 12H/298F/… block was fitted to the likes of Austin 1300GT, MG1300, Riley Kestrel, etc.

[philthehill]

Chipper
Thanks for the information - all grist to the mill.
If you have a source of information can you please post a link on here so it can be added to my source data list..
Phil