I got the B&M short shifter from Santa, and even though it was on my list (which i made BEFORE getting my mini) I'm now wondering if I should even install it.
So I'd like to know what differences you've noticed, other than the obvious shorter throw.
I'd be putting the stock **** back on....does it fit as good as it did on the stock shifter?
How much lower is the **** than stock?
Anything you don't like?
Would you do it again if you got another mini?
Thanks! :smile:

 

>>I got the B&M short shifter from Santa, and even though it was on my list (which i made BEFORE getting my mini) I'm now wondering if I should even install it. :smile: < Your Welcome >

 

I think norm03s hit just about every nail right on the head, but I like the B&M shifter so much I can't resist chiming in.

>> I'm now wondering if I should even install it.

YES, install it! As long as you follow norm's advice to read B&M shifter threads first you won't have a problem. The trouble with the B&M install stems from the less than perfect instructions and though they may have fixed them by now it wouldn't hurt to make sure. Try this thread and this one (don't miss Super_MINI's adjustment of the order of steps in the 20s), and you'll find a link to install tips on MINI2 in this one.

>> So I'd like to know what differences you've noticed, other than the obvious shorter throw.

It has a more precise feel - more smooth and solid.

>> I'd be putting the stock **** back on....does it fit as good as it did on the stock shifter?

The stock **** fits great - that's what I use. Don't lose the retaining ring that comes with the kit though just in case you decide to go with a Whalen or similar **** later.

>> How much lower is the **** than stock?

I think it's closer to 1 1/4" lower - think norm's 1.5" is wishful thinking, but I didn't measure precisely. Either way, I consider it a great improvement. I know there are those who say the shifter should be as close to the steering wheel as possible to make quick shifting as easy as possible, but I think it's a matter of driving style. If you race, it might be more important to go with the Helix solution - uses stock stick but reduces throw dramatically. I don't race but do drive in a rather spirited fashion and I like the lower ****. Besides, now the shifter is less of an obstacle between me and the toggle switches, the front cup holders, etc.

>> Anything you don't like?

The installation instructions.

>> Would you do it again if you got another mini?

If I buy another MINI, I'll probably check to see if UUC has come out with a kit first. If so, I'll debate between the two, but I'll have the install done immediately - the car is even more fun after.

Do it - enjoy it - and report back after.

 

Just got mine from the 'rents for XMas also. Can't wait to HAVE IT installed. Not taking any chances screwing with the exhaust... not to mention the temp in December in CT isn't exactly condusive to outdoor mods. So psycyhed, can't wait to have it installed, oh yea!

 

>>Just got mine from the 'rents for XMas also. Can't wait to HAVE IT installed. Not taking any chances screwing with the exhaust... not to mention the temp in December in CT isn't exactly condusive to outdoor mods. So psycyhed, can't wait to have it installed, oh yea!

I had mine installed by some quality mechanics and THEY broke my retainer ring. They made the mistake of following the instructions because they assumed B&M knew what they were doing. I'll say it again - there's nothing wrong with being cautious - check the earlier threads to see if the instructions that came with yours have been updated - I read a very recent thread (this one from mid-Dec) where someone broke his retainer ring thanks to the instructions, so don't assume. Tell your installer there've been a few problems with broken retainer rings and if they're going to use the instructions they should use their common sense as well....if it seems like it won't fit, don't force it....you might want to even bring a print-out of advice from Super_MINI, etc, with you.

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'02 IB/IB MC (name=ZIPPY) w/ assorted factory extras + SSR Comps (17&quot w/ B-stone Potenza S-03s + RDR rear swaybar + B&M short shifter + HSport ARCAs + Racing Dynamics strut brace + RSpeed exhaust + PiperCross Viper CAI......etc

 

Anyone interested in the B&M shifter can check out the latest version of their installation instructions at their website. I'm not sure how much they've changed since the early version some of us used, but it looks like they at least incorporated Super_MINI's reordering of some of the steps. Also, my instructions were in black & white, but you can print from the link in color - might make the pics a bit more useful.

 

just had mine installed at a local shop. the night before i printed off some of the modified/recommended changes in the install directions. very useful. in particular, i think those few steps from #20-25 around there, and reordering them so that you won't break the retainer ring, was very useful. in fact, that is exactly what i pointed out to the installer. took him about 2 hours with the mini up on a lift. don't think they did a b&m on a mini yet, but they did remark about its quality and performance on their specialty cars, ie. vw.

i luv it. feels more sporty and smoother shifting. but it does require a bit more effort to put into reverse. but this is no trouble at all, especially when using the technique discussed on this site.

and i did have them swap ***** so that i drive with the stock ****. perfect fit.

 

>>Anyone interested in the B&M shifter can check out the latest version of their installation instructions at their website. I'm not sure how much they've changed since the early version some of us used, but it looks like they at least incorporated Super_MINI's reordering of some of the steps. Also, my instructions were in black & white, but you can print from the link in color - might make the pics a bit more useful.

If you want to save yourself a whole lot of trouble, on the B&M web site instructions at step # 22 back up and install the retainer while you have the shifter on the work bench. You do not have to remove both heat shields just remove the bolts for the front one and slide it back out of the way. Other thoughts step # 11 removing retainer, wait till you have it on the work bench slip plastic strips cut from a soda bottle between the retainer and retaining ring to hold the tabs back after pushing them in. The deal is get the shifter out of the car to do the mod then reinstall it period.