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1st GearNew members: make an initial post and introduce yourself as you shift from Neutral to First Gear. Current members: meet some of the new members.
Bought a 09 MCS R57 about 10 months ago, been using this forum for guidance, very informative.
Been a turbulent intro to the Mini marque, I've had many 3 Series and a few older 911's before and never experienced so much down time and ancillary repairs.
Hopefully at the last one ( water pump ) so I can get back and and enjoy the fantastic handling.
Also added the Bilstein B12 kit, Powerflex bushings front and rear and a new set of discs / pads and sensors while the pump was going in.
Looking to get up into the alps and maybe a lap or two of The Ring later in the year.
Cheers,
Last edited by user 46590; Jul 5, 2019 at 03:55 AM.
Hi and welcome to NAM!
Whenever you buy a used car, there is always issues and that is why people get rid of a fun car like these. Once you get it back to the way it should be, it is not so much downtime, it is fun time!
Belated Congrats to you, for buying an R57! It is a very nice looking Mini and looks to be in good shape!
Well, I must be somebody's whipping post, I could have bought a total beater or maybe I'm just a donkey....
I've replaced the water pump, turbo oil line, thermostat housing and valve cover gaskets - in 10 months.
I knew I would need brakes, just did discs / pads and sensors.
It consumes oil like no other car I've had and has a dipstick that's basically useless, guess work at best.
Tell me that's not a sick joke.
The handling was really off too, smooth surfaces were fantastic, everything else sucked.
Front control arm bushings were shot and some play in rear trailing arms.
Just picked up the car an hour ago with new power flex bushings and a Bilstein B12 kit installed.
Light years difference, feels like an M3. The original B4 OEM shocks were shot, you could move the piston with your pinky.
It still needs an alignment which is where I'll be in the AM.
Alignment done and had the car out for 3-4 hours today. Everything is improved, dive bombing and trail braking into corners is just a blast.
Will do a write up on the B12 installation, pre and post pics, alignment specs and post in the suspension thread.
try replacing the PCValve. if it is plugged or sticky, you will be loosing oil.
These little beasts are so fun to drive, that you spend time finding places to exploit them!
