Drivetrain (Cooper S) MINI Cooper S (R53) intakes, exhausts, pulleys, headers, throttle bodies, and any other modifications to the Cooper S drivetrain.

Drivetrain Project MSF...

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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 02:47 PM
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Project MSF...

Well im getting an awesome signing bonus when I go into the Air force in March and have some ideas of what i would like to do with the MINI. Let me know if there is anything that you would add to my list

Here it is...

Detroit tuned bypass valve: 125.00
The M7 Tuning 180F Thermostat : 44.95
B&M Short Shifter : 150.00
ALTA P.S.R.S.: 229.99
koni sport yellows: 640.00
Helix camber plates: 449:00
Detroit tuned belt black out kit: 12.95
5zigen Fn01r-c (matt Black) 17x7: 752.00
Quaife MINI Cooper S w/ helix install : 2,045.00
The Jesus Head / cam : 2,700.00
Helix Stage 2 Brake Kit (stoptech) : 1,699.00
The M7 Air Plate Diverter: 149.00
M7 Under Strut System: 349.00
OMP MINI Cooper Lower Stress Bar: 149.00
TSW Jack Points: 95.00
TSW Engine Damper Kit - Red: 110.00
Way Motorsports MINI Brake Duct kit : 275.00
Corbeau TRS Seat, black, pair: 640.00
Seibon OEM style carbon fiber hood: 672.00
Alta Rear Endlinks: 129.00
Alta Front Endlinks: 129.00
JCW Carbon Fiber Rear Hatch: 167.95
Racing Tow Hook - Red: 54.95
Smoke-Out Kit - Taillights & Side Markers: 49.95
powerflex Upper Engine Mount, Small: 29.95
powerflex Lower Engine Mount, Small: 29.95
powerflex Upper Engine Mount, Large: 20.95
powerflex Lower Engine Mount, Large: 20.95
powerflex Gearbox Mount; 20.95
Jan tune/jcw 380's/ obx header with helix install: 1,350.00
M7 Ram Hood Scoop: 199.00
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 03:21 PM
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First off, that's one hell of a bonus! Congrats (give Osama a kiss if you ever fly over him )

You can't use the OMP lower stress bar and the M7 under strut system at the same time and it's redundant(-$349). I'd lean towards the OMP. They make great race proven products.

For the endlinks, I'd go with Power Grid endlinks. Call Texas Speed Works (TSW) for them. They're quiet, adjustable, near bulletproof (never seen one break).

Be ready for issues with the carbon fiber hood. They don't always 'fit' just right.(-$672??)

I'd pass on the TSW damper(-110). With more & more higher HP MINI's more & more of the brackets bend. There is also an ongoing debate as to if they actually do anything. Another option to look into is the VIP racing part. Different design...maybe better....maybe not.

I'd also pass on the thermostat(-$45). Tried one...the MINI is supposed to run at a certain temp....I removed it. If you're worried about temps, see what RMW is doing with water to air intercoolers (+2000??) or look into water/meth injection(+400-1000).

If you're investing that much into suspension work (don't forget the alignment), you might be better off with a Cross coilover set. It's about $2000 (?) and at that point you would not need the Helix camber plates as the Cross setup comes with plates (-$640/-$449).

Is your car going to be tracked? If not, I wouldn't worry about the brake ducts.(-$275)

Ask your tuner...RMW/Helix...about that M7 air plate diverter...see paragraph about the thermo/cooling. (-$149)

Injector's...again, talk to the tuners. You might need 440's instead.

Th OBX is the best bang for buck header out there, but RMW's header is tuned to the head. (+800??)

Have fun!!
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 03:49 PM
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Looks detailed.
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 04:40 PM
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Well, ... just what is your goal here? Track dedicated? More track then street, or just a very modded street car?
All fun stuff you mention, but it truly depends on what you want to do with the car before I think anyone can really give good input.
Whats up?
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 05:22 PM
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I'm more interested in why in the heck you are going into the Air Force.. . What is your AFSC? Don't tell me you went in open general when they waived that money in your face... . PM me if you have any questions cause it's not what you think . Anyways, that is sure a quick way to spend a bonus. Many of those parts are a waste of money. As Onasled and others said...you need to figure out what your intended goals are. Pick one area and work on that first. Do your research on parts so you dont buy 2 or 3 times and waste money. Some of those parts I wouldn't touch with a 10 ft pole. You'll learn as you go. Good luck....
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 05:57 PM
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If you give us your plan we can advise you better on what routes to take. B/c you can waste a lot of money in the long run if you justbuy to have it done and it does not really help you reach your goal.

I have the ALTA short shifter and I would never go with the B&M, but that is just me.
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 06:18 PM
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Wow, the Air Force is giving bonuses now. The services are really getting desperate if that is happening. If your going to have the LSD installed and your beefing up the power, you might as well install an upgraded clutch and even consider a lightened flywheel since it won't be extra to add those in while the transmission is opened
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 06:26 PM
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No cheap shots at the Air Force

I agree with the other posters that the list of mods may be somewhat excessive and you should pick an area an work from there.

As for the smart *** who questioned the reason you are joining the AF, I would say it is because you are a true american who knows that our country is in need of help in fighting terrorism and protecting our way of life. The last time I checked, the military is "all voluntary" and the AF has never drafted (except for doctor during VN who went into the service under the Berry plan). Good for you for volunteering to serve our country and it is good that the AF is giving you an enlistment bonus. When I voluntered (back in 67) there was no such thing as a signing bonus... As for taking an open general, that was the way I went in and I got air traffic control. Additionally, my last 12 years I was a recruiter, if you want to know what the AF is really like, send my you e-mail address and I will be happy to respond.

Sorry guys for this response, but I just don't like people taking shots at my AF or AF recruiters.

FLS, MSgt, USAFRet.
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 06:33 PM
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or you could try investing it and planning for a future
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 06:37 PM
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ooopps....
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 06:50 PM
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Hsport sway bar?
minus BM shifter
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 06:52 PM
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He asked for feedback on the mods but I guess you decided to throw your two cents on something unrelated to the post. Classy

Originally Posted by 483FITTER
or you could try investing it and planning for a future
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 07:18 PM
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Originally Posted by HighLife4136
First off, that's one hell of a bonus! Congrats (give Osama a kiss if you ever fly over him )

You can't use the OMP lower stress bar and the M7 under strut system at the same time and it's redundant(-$349). I'd lean towards the OMP. They make great race proven products.

For the endlinks, I'd go with Power Grid endlinks. Call Texas Speed Works (TSW) for them. They're quiet, adjustable, near bulletproof (never seen one break).

Be ready for issues with the carbon fiber hood. They don't always 'fit' just right.(-$672??)

I'd pass on the TSW damper(-110). With more & more higher HP MINI's more & more of the brackets bend. There is also an ongoing debate as to if they actually do anything. Another option to look into is the VIP racing part. Different design...maybe better....maybe not.

I'd also pass on the thermostat(-$45). Tried one...the MINI is supposed to run at a certain temp....I removed it. If you're worried about temps, see what RMW is doing with water to air intercoolers (+2000??) or look into water/meth injection(+400-1000).

If you're investing that much into suspension work (don't forget the alignment), you might be better off with a Cross coilover set. It's about $2000 (?) and at that point you would not need the Helix camber plates as the Cross setup comes with plates (-$640/-$449).

Is your car going to be tracked? If not, I wouldn't worry about the brake ducts.(-$275)

Ask your tuner...RMW/Helix...about that M7 air plate diverter...see paragraph about the thermo/cooling. (-$149)

Injector's...again, talk to the tuners. You might need 440's instead.

Th OBX is the best bang for buck header out there, but RMW's header is tuned to the head. (+800??)

Have fun!!
cool thank you for you imput. as far as the injectors/ header and tune. Those will be done Before i ship for the AF. Coilovers, I wont need them for my use. It will be autox for fun,.. no intentions to be that competative. (love back roads)

Originally Posted by onasled
Well, ... just what is your goal here? Track dedicated? More track then street, or just a very modded street car?
All fun stuff you mention, but it truly depends on what you want to do with the car before I think anyone can really give good input.
Whats up?

Thanks for the input onasled, Love your MINI project by the way. I would like to have a badass street car that i can take to the track once in awhile and have fun.


Originally Posted by UKSUV
I'm more interested in why in the heck you are going into the Air Force.. . What is your AFSC? Don't tell me you went in open general when they waived that money in your face... . PM me if you have any questions cause it's not what you think . Anyways, that is sure a quick way to spend a bonus. Many of those parts are a waste of money. As Onasled and others said...you need to figure out what your intended goals are. Pick one area and work on that first. Do your research on parts so you dont buy 2 or 3 times and waste money. Some of those parts I wouldn't touch with a 10 ft pole. You'll learn as you go. Good luck....
I signed a six year contract and qualified for Para Rescue. I signed the papers that had my bonus amount so it is what I think. Also, and as far a quick way to spend my bonus this is less then a third of my total bonus amount.


Originally Posted by ChrisMCS04
If you give us your plan we can advise you better on what routes to take. B/c you can waste a lot of money in the long run if you justbuy to have it done and it does not really help you reach your goal.


I just want a sick street car, which i already have,.. but hey a project is never complete.


I have the ALTA short shifter and I would never go with the B&M, but that is just me.
I had a B&M in my Civic Si for 3 years and loved it! The only reason i didnt put down the Alta is due to the fact that i have never delt with them.


Originally Posted by batrugger
Wow, the Air Force is giving bonuses now. The services are really getting desperate if that is happening. If your going to have the LSD installed and your beefing up the power, you might as well install an upgraded clutch and even consider a lightened flywheel since it won't be extra to add those in while the transmission is opened

Thank you, The clutch and lightened flywheel was in my mind, just not on paper.


Originally Posted by flscott
I agree with the other posters that the list of mods may be somewhat excessive and you should pick an area an work from there.

Whats this "excessive" you speak of?


As for the smart *** who questioned the reason you are joining the AF, I would say it is because you are a true american who knows that our country is in need of help in fighting terrorism and protecting our way of life. The last time I checked, the military is "all voluntary" and the AF has never drafted (except for doctor during VN who went into the service under the Berry plan). Good for you for volunteering to serve our country and it is good that the AF is giving you an enlistment bonus. When I voluntered (back in 67) there was no such thing as a signing bonus... As for taking an open general, that was the way I went in and I got air traffic control. Additionally, my last 12 years I was a recruiter, if you want to know what the AF is really like, send my you e-mail address and I will be happy to respond.

Sorry guys for this response, but I just don't like people taking shots at my AF or AF recruiters.

FLS, MSgt, USAFRet.


Thank you for your support, Im getting the signing bonus because i qualified for Para Rescue ( Many people are not able to do so). Thank you for serving our country



Originally Posted by 483FITTER
or you could try investing it and planning for a future

I plan on doing so with two thirds of my bonus.



Originally Posted by howsoonisnow1985
Hsport sway bar?
minus BM shifter

Thank you, I have the Mini madness rear sway bar. How's The GP?



Originally Posted by jeffc
He asked for feedback on the mods but I guess you decided to throw your two cents on something unrelated to the post. Classy

Eh,.. it happens jeff. Dont let it bother you
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 07:47 PM
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Originally Posted by jeffc
He asked for feedback on the mods but I guess you decided to throw your two cents on something unrelated to the post. Classy
if i wanted to hear from an ahole i would fart
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 07:53 PM
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Originally Posted by 483FITTER
if i wanted to hear from an ahole i would fart

be easy man, it's just NAM.
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 08:04 PM
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Even though you don't need the coilovers for the track you might still want to consider them. I have a set of Koni yellows with H&R springs but want to upgrade to coilovers for the height adjustability, and slightly better ride quality. Just my 2 cents though.
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 08:08 PM
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Originally Posted by xnotfunkylex
Even though you don't need the coilovers for the track you might still want to consider them. I have a set of Koni yellows with H&R springs but want to upgrade to coilovers for the height adjustability, and slightly better ride quality. Just my 2 cents though.
Thank you for you thoughts If i were gonna go with any coilovers it would be the Spax. But let me know if you want to sell those Koni yellows.
 
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Old Dec 30, 2007 | 08:18 PM
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OK, for a mostly "street car" I think your in for a real rough ride.
My input on this would seriously put some money into some BMWCCA HPDEs. Do these as you are modding the car. I think you will understand more of just what you want rather then finding out that when your done, you'd rather take the mini van to pick up a pizza.
The best street cars I see are ones with painted to match Aero kits.

Anyway, here goes


Detroit tuned bypass valve: 125.00
Yep, good mod for the money I think
The M7 Tuning 180F Thermostat : 44.95
Not necessary unless you live in hot areas. I liked mine and never had an issue, and I live in the Northeast
B&M Short Shifter : 150.00
I'm also an Alta fan when it comes to this.
ALTA P.S.R.S.: 229.99
Just rode in a Mini S that had these and was floored why anyone would want them. Bang-bang-ba-ba-bang.
koni sport yellows: 640.00
Seriously would look into a set of M7 coilovers. I've not heard anything neg about them from people I know who run them. My buddy who has PSS9s says that they are very comparable.
Helix camber plates: 449:00
Camber plates included with M7s
Detroit tuned belt black out kit: 12.95
Up to you, obviously
5zigen Fn01r-c (matt Black) 17x7: 752.00
??
Quaife MINI Cooper S w/ helix install : 2,045.00
The Jesus Head / cam : 2,700.00
Jan tune/jcw 380's/ obx header with helix install: 1,350.00
If you are going with Jan, then I would let him guide you an all these engine mods as a matched system
Helix Stage 2 Brake Kit (stoptech) : 1,699.00
I'd always push Todd of TCE here as he is just about brakes and is always available if you need tech help on his Big Brake Kit (love mine) Wilwood. Lighetr and less $$
But nothing wrong with Stoptechs for sure.

The M7 Air Plate Diverter: 149.00
Never seen one in person
M7 Under Strut System: 349.00
Seems to be the M7 favorite item. Great reviews here, and I have one on the race car.
OMP MINI Cooper Lower Stress Bar: 149.00
Seems to be a double up on the same thing
TSW Jack Points: 95.00
Know nothing.
TSW Engine Damper Kit - Red: 110.00
Never seen one in person.
Way Motorsports MINI Brake Duct kit : 275.00
Kidda cool. If you have the money to spend
Corbeau TRS Seat, black, pair: 640.00
Not a fan. Keep looking, and try them all out for fit!!
Seibon OEM style carbon fiber hood: 672.00
I have one. Know though that its a glass matt construction with a carbon top layer. I think I would skin the stock hood first, and I mean SKIN IT...
Alta Rear Endlinks: 129.00
Just as good as anything else
Alta Front Endlinks: 129.00
No!!! Either the one TSW sells or better yet, PM me for better ones.
JCW Carbon Fiber Rear Hatch: 167.95
??
Racing Tow Hook - Red: 54.95
The factory hook is cool in red
Smoke-Out Kit - Taillights & Side Markers: 49.95
Up to you
powerflex Upper Engine Mount, Small: 29.95
powerflex Lower Engine Mount, Small: 29.95
powerflex Upper Engine Mount, Large: 20.95
powerflex Lower Engine Mount, Large: 20.95
powerflex Gearbox Mount; 20.95
I'd do it, but..... by the time I did all this to my car I hated it on the street!!
M7 Ram Hood Scoop: 199.00
Like it.
Now, with all these mods you have listed, I'd also think about these.
05-06 trany
Rear control arms, I had Altas.
I'm sure there is a ton more things to think of here but you have me dizzy with all this stuff!! :impatient
 

Last edited by onasled; Dec 30, 2007 at 08:26 PM.
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 05:10 AM
  #19  
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Originally Posted by onasled
OK, for a mostly "street car" I think your in for a real rough ride.
My input on this would seriously put some money into some BMWCCA HPDEs. Do these as you are modding the car. I think you will understand more of just what you want rather then finding out that when your done, you'd rather take the mini van to pick up a pizza.
The best street cars I see are ones with painted to match Aero kits.

Anyway, here goes



Yep, good mod for the money I think

Not necessary unless you live in hot areas. I liked mine and never had an issue, and I live in the Northeast

I'm also an Alta fan when it comes to this.

Just rode in a Mini S that had these and was floored why anyone would want them. Bang-bang-ba-ba-bang.

Seriously would look into a set of M7 coilovers. I've not heard anything neg about them from people I know who run them. My buddy who has PSS9s says that they are very comparable.

Camber plates included with M7s

Up to you, obviously

??



If you are going with Jan, then I would let him guide you an all these engine mods as a matched system

I'd always push Todd of TCE here as he is just about brakes and is always available if you need tech help on his Big Brake Kit (love mine) Wilwood. Lighetr and less $$
But nothing wrong with Stoptechs for sure.


Never seen one in person

Seems to be the M7 favorite item. Great reviews here, and I have one on the race car.

Seems to be a double up on the same thing

Know nothing.

Never seen one in person.

Kidda cool. If you have the money to spend

Not a fan. Keep looking, and try them all out for fit!!

I have one. Know though that its a glass matt construction with a carbon top layer. I think I would skin the stock hood first, and I mean SKIN IT...
Just as good as anything else

No!!! Either the one TSW sells or better yet, PM me for better ones.

??

The factory hook is cool in red

Up to you





I'd do it, but..... by the time I did all this to my car I hated it on the street!!

Like it.
Now, with all these mods you have listed, I'd also think about these.
05-06 trany
Rear control arms, I had Altas.
I'm sure there is a ton more things to think of here but you have me dizzy with all this stuff!! :impatient

Cool, I didnt even think about the 05-06 tranny . On average what do those go for? M7 coilovers seem to be an awesome product and the fact that they come with the helix camber plates is a deal sealer for me. Let me know if there is anything else that you can think of.
 
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 05:55 AM
  #20  
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Edited again ..... I think I'm wrong about the M7 coilovers comin with camber plates. Sorry..
 

Last edited by onasled; Dec 31, 2007 at 05:58 AM.
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 07:49 AM
  #21  
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Originally Posted by 483FITTER
if i wanted to hear from an ahole i would fart
Come on...let's leave the name calling for the road rage and not on NAM.

Thanks

Mark
 
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 10:00 AM
  #22  
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I would definitely go with ALTA for the short shifter I have had mine on for a little over a year and it has been great. I know Craven Speed also makes one that is similar. I will most likely never go with another shifter, if this one would somehow fail I will buy another ALTA.
 
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 10:44 AM
  #23  
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Originally Posted by ChrisMCS04
I would definitely go with ALTA for the short shifter I have had mine on for a little over a year and it has been great. I know Craven Speed also makes one that is similar. I will most likely never go with another shifter, if this one would somehow fail I will buy another ALTA.
I'm waiting for a new sequential shifter .

Longboard
 
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 11:01 AM
  #24  
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This is all Im going to say with respects to the OP and my OT comment...I hope Flscott's comment wasn't to me. I spent 10 years in the Air Force and just got out last month (Acft elec/enviro) and the AF has changed alot since the 60's-80's. FYI...the odds on making para-rescue are 1:1000 and thats the actual number. IF you dont make it through PR and survival school...be prepaired to give that bonus back. They arent going to let you keep it when you have to cross-train into another AFSC. Food for thought.....Carry on.. Oh...btw...Cravenspeed makes a cool shifter plate and If I had an interior I would run it...lol. I would only run powerflex bushings if you are prepaired for a stiff ride on the street. I'll think of more later.
 

Last edited by UKSUV; Dec 31, 2007 at 11:04 AM.
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Old Dec 31, 2007 | 11:02 AM
  #25  
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Originally Posted by Longboard Mini
I'm waiting for a new sequential shifter .

Longboard
don't tease us like that! details please.
 
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