Target Audience:
Austin Mini Countryman owners, independent repair shops, classic car enthusiasts, hobbyists with basic to intermediate mechanical skills.
Value Proposition:
Provides dealership-level repair and maintenance information at a fraction of the cost, enabling DIY repairs and informed discussions with mechanics. Essential resource for preserving the operational integrity of a classic vehicle.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Includes step-by-step instructions, detailed diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics for clear understanding and execution of repairs.
Manual Completeness:
Advertised as complete and intact, covering all major topics without missing or corrupt parts.
Systems Covered:
General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft/Axle, Suspension, Steering, Restraint, Brake System, Body (Interior/Exterior), Body Electrical, HVAC
Estimated Page Count:
Varies (as it's a digital format, actual print pages can be extensive, but common workshop manuals for this era are typically 300-600 pages when printed)
Type:
Service Repair Workshop Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine disassembly, assembly, cylinder head, block, crankshaft, camshaft, pistons, connecting rods, lubrication system, cooling system, engine tuning
Engine Electrical:
Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments
Fuel System:
Carburetor (SU, possibly Stromberg), fuel pump, fuel tank, fuel lines, troubleshooting
Transmission Clutch:
Clutch operation, adjustment, replacement; Manual transaxle (BMC '4-sync' gearbox) overhaul, shifting mechanisms
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, front disc brakes (standard on many), rear drum brakes, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake lines, parking brake
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (rubber cones/dampers), telescopic dampers, steering rack, kingpins, steering column
Body Electrical:
Dash panel, interior lighting, exterior lighting, wipers, horn, instrumentation wiring
Emission Control:
Details on any emission control equipment relevant to 1966 regulations, typically minimal for this era.
Driveshaft Axle:
CV joints (though early models might use simpler arrangements), differentials, hub bearings.
Body Interior Exterior:
Body shell structure, doors, windows, seats, trim, exterior panels, hinges, locks, fuel filler.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning:
Heater unit operation and basic servicing, ventilation flap controls. Air conditioning was not a factory option.
Steering:
Steering column, steering rack, tie rods, ball joints, steering wheel removal and adjustment.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug checks/replacement, coolant checks, brake fluid checks, lubrication points, chassis lubrication
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, common faults, symptom-based troubleshooting for all major systems
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, cleaning, inspection, repair, and reassembly
Diagnostics:
Systematic troubleshooting guides for electrical faults, engine performance issues, and mechanical failures.
Installation:
Instructions for installing new or reconditioned parts, including engine, gearbox, suspension components, and body panels.
Depth:
Comprehensive; covers everything from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and bodywork repairs.
Wiring Schematics:
Includes detailed, color-coded wiring diagrams for the entire vehicle's electrical system.
Torque Specifications:
Includes critical torque values for engine bolts, suspension components, wheel nuts, and other fasteners, essential for proper assembly.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever came first. Manual will specify exact grade.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, ignition timing, and carburetor adjustment typically every 6,000-12,000 miles. Manual provides detailed procedures.
Engine Oil Type:
Mineral oil, likely 20W-50 or similar viscosity. The manual will provide the precise BMC/Austin specification. Note: Many classic Minis used a shared oil for engine and gearbox.
Coolant Type:
Water with a suitable anti-corrosion additive. The manual will detail the correct mixture and type.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Manual will confirm the exact specification and replacement interval.
Gearbox Oil Type:
Shared with engine oil (see engine oil type). Capacity is critical and detailed in the manual.
Common Wear Items:
Rubber suspension cones (affecting ride height and handling), steering rack wear, clutch wear, engine mounts, Lucas electrical components can be temperamental. The manual provides diagnostic and repair procedures for these.
Company Origin:
British Motor Corporation (BMC), later part of British Leyland.
Countryman Development:
The Countryman (and its sibling, the Traveller) was a more practical, estate-car version of the classic Mini, featuring a distinct sliding side windows and an opening rear tailgate for increased cargo capacity. It retained the Mini's front-wheel-drive layout and transverse engine.
Countryman Distinction:
The Countryman distinguished itself with its longer wheelbase compared to the standard Mini, providing more interior space and a more settled ride, along with its distinctive wood-effect trim on some models (though not standard on all '66 models).
Production Period:
The Countryman was produced from 1960 to 1967, with a major facelift in 1961.
