I will be changing my sc belt in the next couple of weeks and need to get a tensioner tool. I know that Helix sells them, but another NAM vendor said I can order one from MINI. Anyone do this? If so, how much did you pay and do you have a part #? Thanks.

 

The tool changes numbers, the new number is 83 30 0 494 252, it also has a new price, $97.73.

 

The tool is actually a great tool to keep the belt or the tensioner from failing.

I was having issues with them.

Bought the OEM tensioner tool to keep with my spare belt. No more problems...

 

outmotoring has them as well, for less.

 

i bought mine from outmotoring for $72 shipped.

 

Thanks for all the help guys.

 

I just used a long handle rachet drive with no socket to pull back my tensioner.

 

I can loan the one I made PM me if you need it.

 

I built my own tool using a piece of flat steel bar stock and a couple short grade 8 bolts the same diameter as the holes. Just measured holes, drilled holes that far apart on the bar, tapped the holes to give the bolts something to grab. . .and voila! Total cost $3.50.

 

Anybody know if the OEM tool has actually been improved? It used to break so easily that Outmotoring finally developed their own...

 

Thats nuts. can you post a pic of your creation so I dont have to buy one.

 

The MINI repair manual from Haynes has a "do it yourself" on how to make one.
Steve

 

See this DIY thread:

https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...d.php?t=126986

Jeremy

 

Outmotoring has them for cheap and they ship really fast.

 

got mine from outmotoring also.

 

The Cooper uses a different tensioner setup that is MUCH better than the MCS, you can indeed use simply a rachet or breaker bar.

I built my own tensioner tool for my MCS out of 1" heavy gauge steel square tubing, and then welded on some nubs for positioning and leverage. The material only cost a few dollars, and it works much better than the prone-to-breaking factory tool.