Hey all,

Swapped out the passenger axle on the 05 MCS. Seemingly straight forward, but low and behold and I can not get the center bearing to line up. When it is lined up, the axle is slightly out of the transmission, which of course means no go. I've punched that bearing housing on much as I can. Is there any tricks to this??

Heres a video of what Im looking at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6dd...ature=youtu.be

 

I went over it all again, still for the bearing to line up the axle has to be slightly out of the transnission. Of course itll go into gear but wont more or stall out when letting off the clutch.

 

Are you sure you have the correct axle assembly?
(manual R53 passenger side = 31607574850, but auto R53 = 31607574864)

 

What he said. make absolute sure you have to correct part.

 

Im only sure based off the seller from whom I bought it(eBay.) I can't quite tell the differences. After going back over the job, I realize the center bearing housing is only 1/2 and inch off so it may just be a matter of forcing it on further.

 

But just to point out....
The motor on the auto sits about 1/2 inch further over...not sure about splinecount though...it is different on all 3 different Cooper trannys (both flavors of the 5 speed, and CVT) to avoid the issue...

 

This.

I had the wrong part. The axle I have is about 1/2", 1" longer than my OEM one. I dont know what its for, but its not for my Mini. Oversight on my part. I knew i was doing it by the book. Anyway, new axle on the way. I appreciate the feedback.

NOTE: always verify parts haha