Don't leave us hanging, I Googled the AP+P bar but could not find it. Where did you get it?

 

I'm also interested, a friend gave me a strut bar but I took it off since it bulged my hood.

 

Pic showed was an AP+P prototype custom milled to fit w/ Cravenspeed plates. I'm hoping it'll be out in the market soon. Being 1pc, it's stiffer than any other. I'll try to get updates.

 

Thank you! I will be very interested in this set up.

 

I intend to get 1, too.

 

Any links where I could see / buy the cabrio braces and plates? Mines an r53 so do the cabrio (convertible) braces still work? For that price they sound too good to be true!

 

Cabrio braces kit with screws http://www.ecstuning.com/ES2635784/

How to. http://www.pelicanparts.com/techarti...ce_Install.htm

 

Awesome thanks. Glad it's pre drilled on mine makes life easy.

 

I just checked my 2004 R53, with a build date of 09/03, and it has the threaded holes! I will be ordering the cabrio braces now.

 

No problem, if wasn't pre drilled on my 05 I wouldn't attempt to do that job, I tend to mess up everything I drill lol

 

A chrome speedo ring adds some nice contrast for $20.

 

I've heard a lot of strut bars will make the hood bulge. That's not something I'm thrilled about. Any companies that are known to not bulge?

 

AP+P & probably VIP.

 

No problem with the Dinan. Fitment is perfect over the Craven CAI too.

 

I've had mine on for over 6 months now, and have driven very spiritedly around some hairpin turns. Not one crack or bend. Verywell made and solid piece of aluminum with Carbon Inserts. Fitment is perfect, even over the Craven Speed CAI. It removed some slight understeering also. Which I was very happy with. It really helps keeps the front end flat when corning.

Just an FYI. I'll be keeping my eyes on it and if there are any changes, I'll be sure to post with pics.

 

+1 VIP no bulge. altho i did remove some of the insulation where i saw it was rubbing because it was making closing the hood slightly difficult. i can still see where it barely touches the metal on the hood, but again, barely.

the vip one is cool bc you can jack the car up, tighten the **** out of it, then lower the car, making it really stiff. and its a decent deal if you get both the upper and lower bars at the same time. you really will feel a diff with a full set; that combined with the cabrio braces and thats nearly all youll need.

OR, get some of this guys stuff; i have his rear brace, and lower brace kit (awesome). he makes quality stuff; nice guy, good prices. (he used to have a strut bar too, totally unique design; looked it it would have worked with some STDs too, but its not listed anymore. you can always inquire with him directly, he has almost always gotten back with me)

http://stores.ebay.com/MCSpecial-Mini-Cooper-Suspension

 

CoolioMcPimp, I just ordered the cabrio braces last night. Make sure you shop around before you buy. I called two MINI dealers in my area and there was a $41.80 difference in price for the exact part numbers. I would have bought from ECS, they were the next best price from where I bought but I did not have to pay shipping.

 

Dinan has a good bar but that won't give you anti-mushrooming protection.

 

It sounds like VIP is winning this now. I guess spending the extra bucks is a good thing then. I would get AP+P, but I have no idea when that will reach the states. Thanks for the input everyone!

 

The VIP corrected the common flaws of other plate/bar combo.

 

Last question and I'll consider this thread closed.

Intake.

1. I have watched videos online and have found that the aftermarket cone / pod filters don't really do anything for performance in most cases. Also in personal use I have not found any boost in performance either. A matter of fact I felt that performance slowly gets worse over time.

2. Are there any intake setups that still take in air from the grill in the front? Like the OEM air box?

3. Many seem to just sit behind the engine without any real cold air coming in. I've seen a couple that seem to do what I want, but not many. Suggestions?

 

Do a Dave F/Orranje Stealth. It's among the best ways to do intakes. And, it's HOBO!
Here's a DIY (part 1)
http://www.minitorque.com/forum/f275...ner-ish-30411/
Part2:
http://www.minitorque.com/forum/f275...art-2-a-32438/

Part3:
Enjoy your CAI!

 

I'd like to thank all of you for the advice on this post. As a first time Mini buyer it's good to know what the best parts and builds are.

I would also like to comment on how polite everyone was on this thread! Thanks!

I hope you all have good luck with your Minis!

After this thread I will get:

Craven Tower Defenders
Cabrio Braces
The DIY Stealth CAI
Yellow Filmed OEM Fogs
Clear Reverse Light
Aftermarket Rims / Wheels (Not 17" as they seem to damage or cause suspension issues)

Thanks again!

 

Coolio, please let us know when you put the cabrio braces on and if you notice a difference in handling. I just put my cabrio braces on and did not notice a difference but I already have the upper strut brace on.

 

Can do. I have to pay the car off first and do a couple big repairs, so it probably won't be until sometime in late June or early July when I get them in. I have a feeling that in your case you wouldn't notice too much because you have the strut bar already. I'm no pro, but it seems logical in a car this small

I know in my last car that when I put in the strut bar it really didn't make a difference. I think it may be somewhat of a placebo effect as well.