Originally Posted by chadtoolio

Hello all,

I have been working on the R50/R53 MINIs almost since they were brought into the states and have just recently purchased one. 2002 MC, Cosmos Black, Cold weather, Premium package with white bonnet stripes. I checked the car out for a customer and checked out his complaints(Oil leak, pop in steering, PS pump whine..etc..). It turned out that it was going to cost him 3500 bucks to fix it, so he decided to trade it in. It was perfect for me, the gas savings almost make the payment, so I bought it from my dealer before they wholesaled it. I have since replaced the rack, oil pan gasket, VC gasket, A-pillar trim, clutch and brake pedal pads, Cd head unit, RF outer ball joint, LF park light, RR side marker light, floor mats, shift ****, E-brake boot and handle and probably a few more things that I can't think of. I have also put in the updated taillights(05 and newer), MCS clear TS assemblies, boot mat, center console with the tray in front, and E-brake console. I am waiting on the radio stand pillar cover(paint rubbed off), and still need to replace the PS pump. All this in 2 weeks of ownership... Now for the clay and wax.

I have always liked working on these cars, talking with the owners, and now I am able to drive one everyday. I just wish I could get better gas mileage, but the on and off ramps as well as curves are so much fun!

My bio is:

Lead technician at MINI of Charleston and have 15yrs professional exp as tech.
Live in Charleston, SC
Married, 33 with 2 kids(Quintarian 11/Chastity 8)
I enjoy working and tinkering with all kinds of things

I am truly amazed at the amount of info on this board and have learned some things my self...

Thanks for the great site!

Chad

Originally Posted by rhawth99

Welcome to NAM and congrats on your MINI! You sound like the type of tech that I would love having work at the dealership where I purchased my MINIs!