Yup.

Five or six years ago, after my original clutch went, I wanted to upgrade and the OS Giken single mass flywheel and clutch assembly was the only available non-OEM option. I researched it and knew there were daily drivability issues (chatter and less smooth starts) but I didn't think they would be as bad as they were. It really took the fun out of everyday driving and if there is one thing a MINI should be, it's fun.

In theory, I could solve my current problem with just a new clutch (or so I assume — nobody's been inside to look yet). But as long as I will be paying a mechanic to be in there, I'll go back to a DMF.

Lesson learned.

 

Anyone heading to Lime Rock this Thursday, June 28th?

 

That would be the half day SCDA event, right?
I looked hard at fitting that one into my schedule. It wasn’t to be, though.

Have fun.

Veggi - did you go to that WGI event? How was it?

 

It is an SCDA event, but full day. Sorry you can't make it. I did head out to WGI back on April 30/May 1. Suffice it to say that after dealing with snow squalls on the way out and temps in the 40's on day 1, I won't be returning there unless it is mid-summer! On the plus side, I didn't incur any wear on my track tires until day 2.

 

I wish! I put in a new clutch a few weeks ago and now I have to do at least 500 miles before tracking it. The way I drive, that will take a few weeks.

 

 

The techs recommended waiting 500 miles. I don't want to push it.

 

Understood. But you know that is 500 miles of shifting, not just driving to Buffalo and back.

I always wonder what they do with race cars that get rebuilt.

BTW - how are you liking the new clutch?

 

My guess is that race team clutches are somehow broken in before installation, similar to how brake pads can be pre-bedded.

I'm thrilled that the Giken is out. The MINI is much more drivable.

 

they put them in and race, I've watched teams do it at the track

 

How is the pedal feel? More like stock?

That’s what I thought. I guess the a heavy duty pressure plate they don’t have worry about the clutch slipping at WOT like I did...

 

veggi - did you go?

 

Did indeed. First run was greasy, as the track was still wet from light rain that morning, but things dried out nicely for the rest of the day. Car felt good; driver felt tired by the end of the day...probably heading back there on the 23rd.

 

Sounds like a good time.

Sometimes tied is a good thing.

 

Has anyone seen that SCDA is doing a free tack day at NJMP in Sept, if you buy the 4 August track days with them? I wonder if this means track attendance is starting to fall off???

 

I saw that and wondered the same thing. For a variety of reasons this summer has been a total washout for me in terms of track days. I hope do do a few days in August and the fall.

 

I must admit to not doing well to help the cause, either. I bought a new brake setup and haven’t had a chance to try them. Other priorities...

Veggi is the only one I know of around here who has gotten out.

 

Based on what I've seen attendance-wise at WGI and LRP, I don't think SCDA is hurting for customers. Having said that, I have no idea about the other tracks...

 

 

I didn't, but I bet the infamous river was running across 'No Name Straight'! Hard to believe they could screw up the drainage that badly when they repaved a couple of years ago...

 

 

 

 

I'm in.