Greetings from the Mid-Atlantic (US Coast). I've enjoyed the driving community waves or beeps on the road.

Why am I here? Chili Red R55, N14, 01/2009 build, 104K (I know 40K+ over it's life expectancy)

What else is there to say?
The ICE... It runs hot, drinks oil and premium, maybe even coolant, definitely need to replace the plugs, compression test, maybe tighten the HBs. No leaks found on block or driveway.
The body/paint/chrome trim... at least all of the panels align, looks great from 15+ feet.
The glass... could use an ungouged passenger window.
The weather seals... could use a few new ones
The Windshield Cowl Cover... could use a replacement
Sneakers... new RFTs
Brakes... they work
Clutch/MT... they work
Interior... my German Shepherds love that it is roomier than an Audi TT, but prefer the backseat of 2500 MegaCab; need to fix the driver's side ambulance door panel and replace the courtesy light
Lights... starting to fog

Items I'm worried about: head gasket, thermostat, timing chain guide and tensioner, crap clogging the air supply system. At least I have a Bentley and a thin walled 12-point 14mm socket.

Owned and worked on BMW (2002tii, 735i, 535i), VW's (only TDi), Range Rovers (I really hate Lucas wiring), and Toyotas (4Runners). However, the ex-wife took all my tools 12 years ago. Currently learning the Mini (thinking of naming it "The Hessian") and the Ram 2500 (named "Snoopy" named by daughter), I'm using them as an excuse with my wife to rebuild my tool collection.

Why would I dive into expensive hobby for a daily driver? 30+ mpg is awesome and I don't want to buy another 2002tii (which also got 30+ mpg), or another TDi.

Lastly, the search feature is an awesome tool, so I expect I'll be a lurker for the duration. Nothing worse that getting Trolled with a bazillion responses about using "the search".

- James

 

Welcome!

 

If it's not too much trouble, help. I have a 2002 Mini One. Getting back home final evening I went to switch gear and when I lifted the grip had no drive. I can choose any stuff and the grip pedal goes all over easily yet isnt delivering. I had new front wishbone back brambles fitted 250 miles prior and I'm stressed the technician might have harmed the delivery arm or slave chamber? Any assistance would be valued indeed.


snaptube vidmate

 

The N14 likes to run at 218-222 F, in the summer when you have your AC on full blast it will run at 180 or lower. I have just replaced the water pipe for the 2nd time on mine, buy OEM parts for your water pipe and thermostat, I used a Rein water pipe and it leaked after a year. As for oil burn, they do that as well, Mini states 1 qt per 1500 miles is ok, but i have found using LiquiMoly instead of Castrol has helped me a bit there. I change my oil every 3-5k and at 10k i do an engine flush as well, i personally only use OEM or Purflux filters, which are the same manufacture as the OEM.