New 05 mini S owner here thinking of doing 1st mods.

I have been reading that the 15% pulley is the most popular to start. So do I just purchase the pulley, install and voilà! or do I need more components to go with it. If so what are they? I have seen here mention of intake, new spark plugs but do not understand if they are absolutely necessary and why.
Also, which brands are best bang for the buck quality and price wise. Also thinking of the one ball exhaust mod.

Thanks in advance!

 

Unless you plan on an ECU upgrade using Unichip and alike, I would opt for the 17% pulley. The 05 owners I know who had the 15 in, eventually went for the 17, so it would be one step less repeated later on.

With that, you would need the corresponding belt which is a bit shorter in length to maintain the proper tension on all the moving parts there. Anyone who sells the smaller pulley can help you out there.

Afterwards, your set up will be wanting more air flow...initally this is accomplished rather inexpensively by either adding a drop in filter from K&N or Alta. But, if you have the means, buying an OEM Cold Air Intake either from MINI (JCW), DDM, Alta is also recommended to compensate for the higher demands for air from addding the smaller sc pulley.

As far as plugs go, if you live in hot climates, colder JCW plugs from NGK would be a good idea as well.....They have a good reputation and no reported issues of them backing out. Eventually, adding a more aggressive bonnet scoop from M7 to draw in more air to your intercooler is not a bad idea too.

And if you have over 40K miles on your Mini, get your front control arm bushings checked. They don"t usually last very long and are a very critical component to your cars handling and safety. Mine were totally blown out and steering was bit squirrley on uneven road ways. They were replaced with power flex brand bushings ( $99.00 set )and my MINI drives / handles like brand new. Immediatley noiticible difference.....

And Welcome to the community...Enjoy The Ride !

 

Excellent info! Thanks a lot!

 

The dealer is not going to sell a reduced SC pulley belt or colder plugs (other than JCW). Plus, they will charge and arm and a leg for it. GrayRaven is spot on. I just switched to a 17% and love it.

 

im looking to go with a 15% pulley in mine also, also getting colder plugs. I have an 03 tho. Is there a lot of damage done to the engine due to this upgrade? thanks for all the helpful info GrayRaven.

 

Regarding the pulley installation. I am looking for a competent shop to change my pulley. I am in the Kansas City area and do not want to go to Baron Mini. Any suggestions. Thanks