The UniChip I added to my CVT HAS actually given it a bit more "pop" when I use the stick shifter...at least I can now tell when each "gear' shifts! That, plus the catback and the CAIare the only engine mods I have done. I've also gone to non-runflats, EBC pads, s/s lines, M7 STRPs, and a 3-hole rear swaybar. I'm satisfied to leave it where it is now.

 

Actually I think all MINI's should have M7's STRP installed. That was the first place my old one checked on the 2nd inspection. Chad told me I did the right thing installing them.

Art

 

do the suspension (if that hasn't already been said) camber plates, shocks, springs, and rear sway

 

With a Cooper, I would spend all of my money on improving handling and basically nothing other than basic bolt ons to increasing horsepower. You've done a good job of this and it sounds like you've done all the right things!

 

I plan to pull apart the cvt myself if it fails, then I can share my findings with the forums. So far it's holding up as intended, though I had a doubt when it went bouncy when in reverse- turned out it was a computer effect of some kind that corrected itself after my wife drove it for a week(hmm...). Also, I'd like to remind folks that the cylinder head is where the power is, especially non-turbo or supercharged. I got a nice performance improvement by porting my head. The one on the car! If I can, I want to do the MTH tune as was mentioned earlier on this thread, raising my full-throttle shift points. If you have an aftermarket cam but not a ported head, you should see what you're missing! Anyway, I have significant engine performance improvement, but no broken cvt. I do change the cvt oil often, as I do engine oil, and recommend changing the cvt filter once in a while, too. I drive my car like it was a Mini Cooper, or something like that, but have only had one part replaced- the power window motor. If your horse likes you, it probably won't throw you off. -love, Jeffy.