6-speed Transmission (1st to 2nd Rough)

[dominicrouse]

So, I purchased my first Mini last weekend, a 2002 Cooper S with 94,500kms and a history of 2 young male owners. The car is in great condition considering it's age but I can only imagine the abuse the transmission has taken. The 1st to 2nd gear changes feel somewhat rough and I can occasionally hear a chunky, almost momentary vibration when gearing up to 2nd. 3rd is less obvious but slightly harsh. I've already changed the tranny fluid to Castrol Synthetic without a noticeable reduction in noise or roughness.

The car is well past it's warranty and I've heard that dealers doesn't repair or service Mini transmissions, they just replace them. Is this true? Has anyone had experience with servicing 6-speed tranny syncros in southern Ontario and the name/contact at the shop? I can only presume AAMCO and Mr Transmission would be a good start but every location is different and I'm looking for positive feedback before committing.

Otherwise I'd look at replacing the transmission, and if I'm going to do that I'd like to know if anyone has heard of a suitable aftermarket 6-spd tranny with higher gear ratios? I believe it already comes with a Getrag, so I can only imagine that would be top of the line already, right?

Thanks for any insight or experiences shared...

[beken]

If you do swap out transmissions, consider swapping for a 2005/2006 transmission. The 2005 facelift also included a change in gear ratios that made the car a bit quicker off the line.

Not sure what you mean by rough, but in most cars, 1st and 2nd gears are usually noisier because of the difference in ratio and the synchro gear.

Sorry, can't be of much help other than that. I don't know of any major issues with the 6-speed manual transmissions. Perhaps somebody else will chime in.